Controversial Move: Delhi University Proposes Teaching Manusmriti in LLB Course

Delhi University's law faculty proposes teaching Manusmriti to LLB students, sparking criticism from teachers who argue it promotes regressive views on women's and marginalized communities' rights. The Academic Council is set to discuss the syllabus revisions on July 12.

A proposal to teach Manusmriti to Delhi University's LLB students will be discussed in the Academic Council meeting on Friday, sparking criticism from some teachers.

The Faculty of Law seeks approval from DU's highest decision-making body to revise their syllabus, incorporating Manusmriti for first and third-year students.

The course revisions concern semesters one and six, proposing two specific readings on Manusmriti.

The Course Committee, led by Dean Anju Vali Tikoo, unanimously approved the revisions in its June 24 meeting.

However, the Social Democratic Teachers Front (SDTF) has objected, writing to DU Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh, claiming the text promotes regressive views on women and marginalized communities.

SDTF stated Manusmriti opposes women's education and equal rights in several sections and contradicts the principles of the Indian Constitution.

They demanded the proposal be withdrawn and not approved in the Academic Council's July 12 meeting.

The SDTF further urged the vice-chancellor to instruct the law faculty to continue teaching based on the existing syllabus.

(With inputs from agencies.)